Have you noticed that our Birthstone Collection has developed quite the following? The January (sold out!) and February (just a few left) colors have been very popular, and your readers are going to love March's Birthstone color, Aretha. 

Introducing Aretha - Aquamarine for March, the newest addition to our gold-capped Birthstone Collection. She's a gorgeous multi-dimensional glitter top coat, perfect for March babies or a someone special with a March birthday.

Aretha is a tribute to a musical superstar—the soul queen, jazz diva, gospel godsend that is Aretha Franklin, born March 25. 

Available while supplies last!

Did you know that Maven subscribers get 20% plus free shipping every day, making Aretha only $11.20 instead of $14.00.The Julep Maven subscription program gives you exclusive access to the latest trendsetting new nail colors and beauty products that are just right for you each month. Take the Style Quiz to get started and get your Welcome Box for free (use code FREEBOX and pay $4.99 shipping).  

To see all of the new nail colors, click here! 

I will post all about my new Maven box next week! 

BEAUTY BREAK OUT

I have been going cray over make up and beauty products lately. I am not one to experiment with my look too much. This coming from the girl that's had the same hairstyle the majority of her life. I purchased my very first Naked Palette and I have been very pleased with it! The colors are pigmented and they add a little drama to the eyes.

I tend to gravitate more to neutral shades, but I am starting to branch out and use more bronze and gold. I think its flattering on my skin tone and the colors all blend beautifully.

I have also been experimenting with eye liner. I have never tried liquid liner before, but thought I would give it a shot. I did the little "wing" and I think it turned out pretty well. I just need to get both eyes to look at least somewhat similar...Can I get an amen?

Contouring. Contouring. Contouring. I have never contoured before, and I am certainly not an expert, but I have enjoyed seeing myself get better and better everyday. I am using the Fit foundation in a shade or two darker than my skin tone. It works great for beginners!

This is my beginner "duck" face.

Along with my contouring, liquid liner, and Naked Palette, I have been trying a new face primer by Rimmel called, Fix and Perfect Pro Foundation Primer. It definitely helps to keep my foundation in place and controls oil production. I suggest you give it a shot!

Have you tried any new products lately? 

HOORAY FOR JULEP

+I am a part of the blogger affiliate program for Julep, Inc. and this post includes affiliate links. All opinions are my own.
I am a big fan of polished nails. I look and feel a bit fancier when my nails are polished. I don't play around with too many trends because I tend to gravitate more to classic and timeless looks.

pictured: "Myrtle" (red) "Zora" (light pink)

When I heard about Julep I was interested to see what color options they had. I like pinks, reds, and neutral shades for the most part, so I wanted to be sure I could get something that reflected my style. Luckily, when you first arrive to Julep you fill out a quiz that helps determine your style. After filling out the quiz Julep tells you what monthly subscription box fits your style best. I am a "Classic with a Twist"! That fits me perfectly.
Julep Beauty's Maven subscription box is more than just first access to the latest in beauty innovation delivered to your doorstep every month. Take a look at all the beautiful benefits you get when you become a Maven:

• Get your Maven starter box for FREE (regularly $19.99) with the code FREEBOX
• Get $40 of our 4-free nail polish and beauty products for just $20 and customized to your style
• Get 20% off all regular priced items and free shipping
• Early access to the newest Julep collection on the 20th of each month
• Exclusive access to the Secret Store and first dibs on Mystery Boxes

So, what are you waiting for? Take the Style Quiz and get your first Maven box for FREE! Don't forget to use FREEBOX at checkout. (Note, you will have to pay shipping on the intro box and you can cancel at any time!)

pictured: January "Classic with a Twist" intro Maven Box

If you're interested in getting started, feel free to click below and take the style quiz! Let me know if you have any questions!

Don't forget!
USE CODE FREEBOX TO GET YOUR FIRST MONTHLY BEAUTY BOX FREE!

WEEKEND MAKE UP ROUTINE

I don't know about you, but I hate spending too much time on my make up during the weekend, unless I absolutely have to. If I have something fancy to do (which isn't often), then I will glam it up a bit, but day to day I tend to keep it simple. I try and let my skin breathe during the weekend since my skin is adorned for close to 14 hours a day.

My Skin: I have oily/combination skin and a lot of redness. I haven't been diagnosed with rosacea, but I feel like I may have it. I have a very pink undertone and very dark under eye circles. I tend to use foundation daily to cover up and even out my skin. I wear concealer under my eyes, on my eye lids, and at the corners of my nose. I have been break out free for close to 4 weeks (YAY!), so I haven't had as many blemishes to cover. The only time I have was for a couple of days during that time of the month.

Routine:
1. Foundation: Mary Kay TimeWise Matte Wear Foundation
2. Concealer: Revlon Liquid Concealer
3. Powder: Covergirl Shine Control
4. Blush: Mary Kay Cream Blush
5. Eye Shadow: Mark Kay Cream Eyeshadow
6. Eye Liner: Maybelline Masterdrama Eyeliner
7. Mascara: Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara
8. Lip Balm: EOS Mint Lip Balm

I go very subtle with the eyeliner since the brand I have is a bit thicker. I smudge it a little to give a messier look. The palette is quite neutral, as I really only want to show off my face and not so much my make up.

Skin Care: I start with clean skin, astringent, and moisturizer. I have been using Clearasil Ultra Acne + Marks Daily Scrub. I use that twice a day (morning & night), followed by Clearasil astringent, and then I moisturize with Mary Kay TimeWise Moisturizer. This routine has saved my life and I have been noticing a big difference.

I finish my make up by putting on some EOS lip balm (amazing) and that's it! I like that there isn't any color in the lip balm, but it keeps my lips soft and moisturized. It's been one of my essentials since we are experiencing some colder temps this month.

If you have any questions about my routine, leave them below!

STUFF THAT STOCKING

It's never easy to buy gifts for everyone in your family. Personally, I enjoy the idea of giving a bunch of small things that are useful, meaningful, or quirky. The items pictured above would please anyone in your bunch - picky or not. I am an avid user of the Mary Kay Cream Eye Color and use it as a primer under my eye shadow. It can also be worn alone for a subtle shimmer. The Mary Kay At Play Baked Eye Trio is perfect for someone who may not want to wear a lot of make up or want to clutter up their bathroom cabinet with different shades. The colors are perfect for the holiday season! Gift sets (like this one + this one) are perfect for those who may want to use several products over time. The Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion for legs + feet is seriously amazing. It feels great and the minty smell gives you a spa-like experience. Great for men and women! Lastly, the Mary Kay at Play Lip Crayon is a simple way to give color without it being overwhelmingly thick or sticky. This line is great for teenagers!

To order you can visit my personal website, Facebook page, or email. 

 Hurry to have your gifts arrive before Christmas!

JEWELS

Tortoise Shell Necklace // Karin Pendant Necklace // Kate Earrings // Isabella Earrings // Mix & Match Metro Grand

I have been looking for pieces to round out my jewelry collection. I used to purchase jewelry all the time, but since I have gotten older I am a bit more choosy when it comes to choosing jewelry. I tend to gravitate towards more classic pieces that I can mix and match with several outfits. Kate Spade has some great pieces (obviously), and I included some from my own jewelry boutique.

What are your favorite jewelry pieces?

SATURDAY

Slouchy Sweater Pant  // Polka Dot Cardigan  // Women's Suede Sherpa Moccasin  // Women's Jersey Tee Hoodies // Women's Lounge Pants

I love weekends. I love watching movies, cooking, cleaning, relaxing, blogging, etc. What are your favorite weekend plans?

FALL TRENDS

I am loving the fall line at J.Crew. Their prices can be quite steep, but the quality of the clothing and accessories almost makes up for the major loss in your bank account. I mean, a $500 scarf, maybe not, but a girl can dream. I think classics are always a staple in my wardrobe, and this fall is no exception. I am loving the retro glasses. The thick frames are modern, yet have a vintage vibe, which is the perfect combo! Silver penny loafers, must I say more? Stripes are always acceptable, as are scarves. Handwoven scarves from anywhere are so comfy and soft on those cold days. The items above are found or collected items that are found all over the world, but you can find some derivative of these items at your favorite store.

Linking up with Kristin + Ashlyn for Four Favorites.

LOVE ME

source: Melissa's Merchandise

I love scarves. Since fall is nearing closer, I thought I would share a few from my online boutique. If you love scarves, check out my boutique for this year's latest trends. There are even a couple of scarves with studded skulls on them. So cute! Be sure to register as my customer for a chance to win $25 in free jewelry or accessories. I plan on randomly choosing a registered customer in the next couple of weeks. More to come!

What are your favorites scarves from my boutique?

FOUR FAVORITES: FALL

Here are my four favorites for fall.

photo // sweater // tunic (not original source) // Starbucks

I think that crunchy leaves are one of the more beautiful parts of fall, along with the crisp air. I am a sucker for the studded sweaters and I love the flowy comfort of a tunic. Both items can be worn with skinny jeans and boots, or leggings and boots. And Starbucks lattes? Need I say more. Make mine a grande, non-fat, pumpkin spice, please.

What do you love about fall? 

Linking up with Ashlyn + Kristin for Four Favorites.

BLACK & WHITE

Top // Loafers // Necklace // Skirt

Source

Black & White is such a classic look. I think that the contrast is simple, but elegant. I am actually thinking of redoing my bedroom in black & white very soon. Of course, I love wearing black and white and I think this trend will be around for many more generations. 

Do you like the black and white trend? 

Linking up with Kristin + Ashlyn for Four Favorites.

LEATHER

leather jacket / leather dress / leather necklace / leather shirt 

Leather is such a big trend right now. I am really thinking of splurging on at least one leather piece for fall and winter. I think it's fun to pair leather with a really feminine piece like lace or a floral skirt. 

What are your leather favorites? Are you embracing the leather trend?

Linking up with Kristin + Ashlyn for Four Favorites.

MOMS WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

My sister is a stay at home mom and just the other day we were talking about moms who seem to always look put together. It can be a major feat for any mom, but if you are a mom looking for ways to tackle the day and look good doing it, you may want to pay attention to the information below! P.S. These looks can work for any woman because they are easy pieces that can be thrown on so you can get out the door and on with your day!

source | edited: MELISSA FAYE BLOG

Below are the essentials for any mom on-the-go or for the working mom. 

These are general items, and of course, your wardrobe can always expand to include your favorites!

+ all items can be found at Old Navy. 

Dresses: These are my favorite because they are a one piece item and can be paired with flats, heels, wedges, or boots. I opted for lighter fabrics that are machine washable.
Skirts: These are also easy and can be paired with a collared shirt, blouse, or cami and cardigan. I also love the flirty shape.
Athletic wear: I am not against a mom wearing athletic wear (hello, its comfy), as long as it involves exercising. If you run by the store after going to gym, or just need to run a few errands, by all means wear what you have on. Just be sure it coordinates and looks put together. A ratty old shirt and a pair of worn out sweat pants may not give you the look you are wanting.
Long Sleeved Tees: I love these with a pair of jeans and flats, or skinnies and boots. Either way accessorize with your favorite bag, watch or pair of stud earrings. You can be casual and still look like you put effort into your outfit. Plus, it gives you room to move when chasing the little ones!
Patterned Chambray: Chambray is a big trend right now and for good reason. They can be paired with darker denim, khakis, patterned ankle pants, skirts, etc. They are also comfortable.
Cardis & Hoodies: I am a big fan of cardigans both at home and running errands. I think cardigans look great with just about anything and if the color is neutral you can pair with all kinds of items in your wardrobe. Hoodies are also great for a rainy day, lounging at home, or exercising. I don't think moms have to be in a dress & heels all day everyday. Wearing a hoodie with jeans and chucks is okay too!

If you're a mom, what are you wardrobe favorites?

+ I was not compensated for this post. I genuinely love all items chosen.

SCARVES FOR EVERY LOOK

source: Kitsy Lane

I love scarves for just about any season. I think they look great with a pair of skinnies and a tee or with a little black dress. Whatever your style there is sure to be a scarf that can complete your look! I mentioned last week that I sell jewelry, but other accessories including scarves can be found in my shop as well. You can find my favorites here and here. Just be sure to register as my customer and on September 15 I will be choosing one lucky registered customer to get $25 worth of free products!

So head here to get registered. It could be your ticket to free accessories!

FAVORITE FALL OUTFITS

Scarves. Boots. Sparkle. Dresses. Tights. Are you ready for fall? I am!

POWDER UP

I love the soft look of powder make up products. I have very oily skin, so a good powder finish is important to help soak up oil and give my look a matte finish. I think bronzer and highlighting powder give depth and help to contour my features. And translucent powder? Um. It's a life saver. Especially in the summer. My face basically melts off if I don't wear this stuff. Oh, and if you're interested in any of the above products, feel free to browse my Mary Kay website!